The Comedy Cellar: Live from the Table

Former Congressman Anthony Weiner comes to discuss his past and future. His mistakes, life in prison, what he's learned and how it all can make him an even better leader for New York City.

00:02:00 Congestion Pricing00:21:19 The Dave Smith Fued00:49:12 Trump and H-1B Visas00:56:08 Being a gigolo and regretsComedian Aaron Berg Aaron Berg is a NYC-based comedian, a regular performer at Skankfest, and an author who is originally from Toronto. He graduated with an honors degree in Philosophy from The University of New Brunswick. He has made multiple TV and film appearances and his six stand up albums are available on iTunes and Amazon.

Eyal Yakoby is a twenty two year old graduate of the University of Pennsylvania. He is currently a student at MIT dedicated to combating anti-Americanism. He has been seen on CNN, FoxNews, Washington Post and more.

In the first of our 2 sessions with Scott, we get into his powerful book "Provoked," and whether or not the United States is the main villain in the Ukraine War.Was the Maidan a coup, an organic movement, or a bit of both?What was the Nuland phone call all about?Where do the Kissingers and the Tucker Carlsons diverge?Part II is here: https://youtu.be/hdeMqJDWOm4Provoked: How Washington Started the New Cold War with Russia and the Catastrophe in UkraineAvailable on Amazon: https://a.co/d/hFaTYPm

In the second of our 2 sessions with Scott, we get into some of the sources cited in his powerful book "Provoked," and whether they are biased by an extreme worldview. We also argue about Candace Owens and whether her views ought to make her beyond the pale as an accepted member of a political clique (Noam says yes, Scott says no). Also, was Maidan a coup, an organic movement, or a bit of both?Part 1 will be uploaded shortly. Provoked: How Washington Started the New Cold War with Russia and the Catastrophe in UkraineAvailable on Amazon: https://a.co/d/hFaTYPmSome links: https://peakprosperity.com/dave-collum-year-in-review-2021-rise-of-global-authoritarianism/https://www.jasonhartman.com/2182-trump-assassination-attempt-inside-job-or-incompetence-conspiracy-or-coincidence/https://news.grabien.com/wire-dave-collum-goes-deep-conspiracy-theories-911-epstein-pizzaghttps://english.almayadeen.net/articles/analysis/third-911-hijacker-may-have-been-cia-recruithttps://quoththeraven.podbean.com/e/quoth-the-raven-131-dave-collum-the-conspiracy-theory-episode/

In this insightful discussion, Aaron Maté, a journalist with the Grayzone News and co-host of the Useful Idiots Podcast, dives deep into the complexities of international conflicts. He explores the contrasting narratives surrounding Ukraine and Israel-Palestine, dissecting historical grievances and the moral implications of territorial disputes. The conversation tackles the U.S. role in Ukraine’s political landscape and critiques the influence of foreign policy on ongoing wars, all while emphasizing the importance of truth and reliable evidence in conflict-related narratives.

The hosts explore the challenges facing comedians today, especially the tension between free speech and customer complaints. They discuss the responsibilities comedians have to balance humor with sensitivity, showcased through a woman's reaction to an offensive joke during her IVF journey. Delving into the realm of conspiracy theories, they critically assess their societal dangers and ties to anti-Semitism, all while questioning the impact of jokes on public discourse. Comedy, it seems, is a tightrope walk of laughter and responsibility.

Ann Coulter, a conservative author known for her fierce political commentary, shares her provocative views on immigration and Donald Trump's legacy. She humorously navigates the complexities of immigration policy, weighing the value of immigrants against national loyalty. The discussion takes a turn to examine the public's response to COVID-19, contrasting vaccination strategies while critiquing political narratives. Coulter also reflects on contemporary political figures, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and delves into the contentious landscape of transgender rights.

Yardena Schwartz, an award-winning journalist and Emmy-nominated producer, shares insights from her book "Ghosts of a Holy War," which delves into the 1929 Hebron Massacre and its modern implications. The discussion highlights the alarming rise of anti-Semitism today, echoing historical events and the role of misinformation in inciting violence. Schwartz also explores complex narratives surrounding Jewish and Palestinian identities and the challenges of reconciliation within the fraught Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Ann Bauer, a celebrated author with a keen eye for societal nuances, shares her journey from a progressive Democrat to voting for Trump. She discusses the alienation felt during the pandemic and critiques school closures affecting vulnerable children. Bauer also reflects on the complexities of identity and activism, particularly surrounding LGBTQ+ issues. With thoughtful insights on political polarization and the significance of humor in leadership, she captures the emotional upheaval tied to today's divisive political landscape.